Plot structure, Conflict, and theme

Plot structure Plot is the literary element that describes the structure of the story. Plot shows the causal arrangement of events and actions within a story.

Plot structure: Exposition Sets the scene Author introduces the setting and characters Provides description and background information Example

Plot structure: Rising action Series of conflicts and crises in the story that lead to the turning point Example

Plot structure: climax Also called the “turning point” Event that the rising action and central conflict leads up to Place where plot turns or “changes direction” toward a resolution Example

Plot structure: falling action Events that happen as a result of the climax as the conflict grows closer to being resolved Example

Plot structure: resolution Main conflict is solved or resolved Example

conflict Without conflict, there is no plot! Usually introduced during the rising action Faced head-on during the climax Begins to work itself out during the falling action Is resolved during the resolution

conflict Internal Character vs Him- or Herself External Struggle takes place in character’s own mind Usually something to do with choice or overcoming emotions or mixed feelings External Character vs Character Protagonist vs antagonist Character vs Nature Usually character is struggling to survive Character vs Society Group of characters fighting against society Character fights against social traditions or rules

Other types of conflict Character vs Supernatural Gods, ghosts, monsters, spirits, aliens, etc. Character vs Fate Fight for choice; fight against destiny Character vs Technology Computers, machines, etc.